Where to Buy an Ultrabook Convertible

Users looking to buy a new Ultrabook Convertible notebook and tablet device can already order four of most promising models from Dell, Lenovo, Toshiba and Sony.

The Ultrabook Convertible name is given to a new class of Windows 8 devices that transform from a notebook to tablet with dual screens, special hinges or sliders. While this isn’t the first time a fancy hinge helped users turn a notebook into a tablet, Windows 8’s touch screen focus and backing from Intel are driving interest in the Ultrabook Convertible.

Users that want to use an Ultrabook Convertible before buying one should check out their local Best Buy. Some stores are selling the IdeaPad Yoga 13 Ultrabook Convertible in store, so there is a good chance of finding a demo device. For most users, online ordering is the only option.

IdeaPad Yoga 13 – $999

Lenovo offers the IdeaPad Yoga 13 starting $999 after a $100 coupon with a 13.3-inch display, an Intel Core i3 3rd generation processor and 4GB RAM. Users can opt for better processors and up to 8GB of RAM but there is no option to configure the IdeaPad Yoga 13 with more than 128GB of storage.

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This UltraBook Convertible uses a dual hinge to rotate the screen back behind the notebook while it is in use as a tablet. Because of this hinge, users can position the device as a notebook, as a tablet, in tent mode using the back as a kickstand or in stand mode with the keyboard tucked behind. Check out the positions in the video below.

Toshiba Satellite U925T – $1,149

Toshiba sells the Satellite U925T direct for $1,149 with a 12.5-inch display, Intel Core i5 3rd gen processor and 4GB of RAM. The notebook includes a 128GB SSD, and there are no options to upgrade RAM or storage at the time of purchase. This Ultrabook Convertible includes front and rear facing cameras.

Users slide the display back, and then tilt it up to transform from a tablet to a notebook as shown in the video below. Users cannot stand it in multiple positions like the Yoga, but the transition looks quite smooth.

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Sony VAIO Duo 11 – $1,099

The Sony VAIO Duo 11 Ultrabook Convertible starts at $1,099 with an 11.6-inch display, Intel Core i3 3rd gen processor, 4GB of RAM and a 128GB SSD. The display on this device is 1920 x 1080, much higher than the competition. Users can customize this Ultrabook Convertible with up to 256GB of storage and 8GB of RAM.

The Sony VAIO DUO 11 includes a pen for inking and pen based input, as shown in the video below.

This Ultrabook Convertible also uses a sliding design that reveals a keyboard. Users should take note that this display is much closer to the keyboard than those on competing notebooks, and there is no adjustable angle on the Sony.

Dell XPS 12 – $1,199

The Dell XPS 12 Ultrabook Convertible starts at $1,199 with an Intel Core i5 3rd generation processor, 4GB RAM and a 128GB SSD. The notebook is configurable with up to a 256GB SSD and 8GB of RAM. Users can buy this Ultrabook Convertible today, but it will not ship until November 14th.

Dell brings the flip display we’ve seen on previous netbooks to the Ultrabook line, offering a quick flip to put the display in tablet mode. Users can carry the device in tablet mode or closed with the display protected like a traditional notebook. Check out the display hinge in the video below.

Josh Smith is Editor of GottaBeMobile and Notebooks.com. He's always looking for ways to help you get the most of your gear and loves to talk about tech on radio and TV. Josh uses an iOS and Android devices as well as Mac and Windows Computers. Josh Smith on Google+
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